MINISTRY OF HEALTH SUPPORTS NEW ALCOHOL AND DRUG FACILITY IN REGINA

The Ministry of Health will be providing $5.1 million in capital funding and $1.25 million in annual operating funding to the Regina Qu'Appelle Health Region in support of a new brief and social detoxification centre to be located at 1640 Victoria Avenue.

The new centre is part of the new government's election commitment to fund 100 new treatment beds.

"Enhancing alcohol and drug services are a top priority for the Government of Saskatchewan," Legislative Secretary Joceline Schriemer said. "This project brings us closer to our promise to add addiction treatment beds throughout the province. We are committed to helping those dealing with drug and alcohol addictions."

The facility will provide space for up to 20 people who need an overnight stay or brief detoxification. There also will be space for up to 25 people for those in 10- to 14-day detoxification. In addition, the facility will house adult addictions counselling services, space for visiting health care professionals and staff from other agencies, and case management services.

"The Regina Qu'Appelle Health Region is working with Regina Recovery Homes to offer a range of addiction services in one location," Regina Qu'Appelle Health Region Mental Health and Addictions Services executive director Dave Hedlund said. "The facility will provide a more integrated approach to addictions and recovery services and will enhance what is currently available to people who need and want help with their addictions."

The new centre is scheduled to open December 2009.

-30-

For more information, contact:

Karen Hill
Health
Regina
Phone: 306-787-4083
Email: khill@health.gov.sk.ca